Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have reached an agreement to advance Smotrich’s reserve soldiers' tax benefits bill, the two said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
As a result of the bill's advancement, the Religious Zionist Party will return to voting with the coalition after several days of abstaining.
The proposed law is set to pass its second and third readings next week in the Knesset plenary. This decision follows detailed discussions on the bill, which aims to provide tax benefits to reserve soldiers.
The bill is particularly focused on low-wage earners, ensuring a fixed compensation of approximately 3,000 NIS from 2026 onwards.
The legislation reflects the government’s commitment to supporting Israel's reserve soldiers, who play a critical role in the country’s security.
Financial benefits for reservists
The approval of this bill next week is expected to reinforce the financial benefits for those serving in the reserves, addressing concerns about the financial strain placed on lower-income reserve soldiers.
This move also signals continued coalition unity, as the Religious Zionist Party's return to voting with the coalition ensures broader support for key legislative initiatives in the Knesset.